Why Cheap Roof Repairs Always Cost You More

When your roof starts leaking or showing signs of wear, it’s tempting to take the cheapest route you can find or just try to patch it yourself. But in roofing, “cheap” almost always turns into “expensive” later. What seems like a small savings today can turn into thousands of dollars in damage, warranty issues, and premature replacement down the line.

At Fives Contracting LLC, we’ve seen it all from homeowner’s caulking trapping water, to $200 “repairs” that failed within weeks, to full tear-offs needed because a previous contractor cut corners. Here’s the truth about why cheap roof repairs in New Jersey always end up costing homeowners more in the long run.

1. Cheap Repairs Hide, Not Fix, the Real Problem

Low-cost roofers often address only the symptoms and not the source of a leak. They might replace a few shingles, smear some tar over flashing, or apply sealant to a problem area without actually diagnosing the underlying cause.

By the time the issue resurfaces (and it always does), water has already penetrated the underlayment or decking. That means rotted wood, trapped moisture, mold growth, and sometimes even structural damage.

Quick Fix: $250

Full Repair After Damage: $2,500–$5,000+

2. Inferior Materials Don’t Last in NJ Weather

New Jersey sees everything in terms of weather. Intense summer heat, freezing winters, coastal moisture, and high winds. Cheap roof repairs usually rely on low-grade materials that simply aren’t designed for that kind of stress.

Non-certified roofers often use leftover shingles, generic sealants, or off-brand underlayments that fail prematurely. When we use GAF Timberline HDZ or Mule-Hide EPDM / TPO systems, we’re installing products tested to perform for decades, not months.

Pro Tip: Always ask your contractor for the exact shingle and underlayment brand being used. If it isn’t the same as the shingle manufacturer, you could be disqualified from their warranty and if it’s not a recognized manufacturer, it’s definitely not worth trusting to protect your home.

3. No Warranty = No Recourse

Most cheap roofers can’t offer a manufacturer-backed warranty, and if they do, it’s often voided because they’re not certified installers. Once that “repair” fails, you’re left paying again for a new fix.

By contrast, certified contractors like Fives Contracting LLC can register extended warranties through GAF, Mule-Hide and CertainTeed, protecting your investment for decades.

4. DIY Roof Repairs Are a Hidden Liability

Trying to handle a leak yourself might feel resourceful, but it can cost you more than you realize. Besides the safety risk, most DIY roof repairs fail to meet building codes or manufacturer standards. Worse, if you ever file a homeowner’s insurance claim, the adjuster can deny it purely based off the fact that the repair wasn’t done professionally.

DIY roof repair risks include:

• Voiding your roof warranty

• Creating hidden water channels under shingles

• Causing ventilation or mold issues

• Safety hazards from ladder or fall accidents (And yes, we have been greeted by a customer with crutches before as a result of trying to do the repair themselves)

5. Quality Work Saves You Money Long-Term

A professional roof repair may cost more upfront, but it comes with:

• Correct diagnosis of the root problem

• Premium materials rated for NJ’s climate

• Proper installation techniques and ventilation

• Documented warranties and long-term protection

Instead of paying multiple times for patchwork, you pay once for peace of mind and a roof that lasts.

Roof Repair vs. Replacement: When to Make the Call

We generally say that if your roof is under 10 years old and the issue is isolated, a professional repair makes sense. However, if you’re seeing recurring leaks, curling shingles, or moss and algae growth across large sections, it’s definitely time to consider a full replacement.

A roof replacement can increase your home’s value, improve energy efficiency, and eliminate years of hidden problems caused by cheap patchwork.

Bottom Line: Cheap Roof Repairs Cost More Every Time

So the next time someone offers a “quick, cheap fix,” ask yourself: what’s the real cost of doing this twice?

If you want the job done right the first time, call Fives Contracting LLC. We’re certified, insured, and local, proudly serving Medford, NJ, and surrounding areas with honest roofing solutions that last.

📞 Call or Text: (609) 457-3959

🌐 Visit: fivescontracting.com

📍 Serving New Jersey & Pennsylvania